U.S. patent application number 10/277473 was filed with the patent office on 2003-08-21 for retrofit audit system.
Invention is credited to Carstens, Jeffrey M., Genoff, Gordon, Ross, Robert D..
Application Number | 20030158625 10/277473 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23369521 |
Filed Date | 2003-08-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030158625 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Carstens, Jeffrey M. ; et
al. |
August 21, 2003 |
Retrofit audit system
Abstract
An audit system for connection to vending machines is described.
In an implementation, the audit system includes an audit monitor
containing a microprocessor capable of reading information from at
least one of a vending machine or from an operational device. The
audit system also includes at least one sub-module coupled to the
audit monitor and capable of detecting additional information.
Inventors: |
Carstens, Jeffrey M.; (West
Chester, PA) ; Ross, Robert D.; (Gibbsboro, NJ)
; Genoff, Gordon; (Chesapeake, VA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FISH & RICHARDSON P.C.
45 ROCKEFELLER PLAZA, SUITE 2800
NEW YORK
NY
10111
US
|
Family ID: |
23369521 |
Appl. No.: |
10/277473 |
Filed: |
October 22, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60348784 |
Oct 23, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
700/236 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 9/026 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
700/236 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A retrofit audit system comprising: a master module containing a
microprocessor capable of reading information directly from a
target vending machine control system or operational device, the
master module including at least one communication port; a
plurality of sub-modules connected to the at least one
communication port of the master module, the sub-modules capable of
detecting additional information from the target vending machine or
operational device.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 where at least one sub-module contains
a microprocessor.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sub-modules include at
least one of a linear motor monitor, a matrix motor monitor, a
direct linear motor monitor and a direct matrix motor monitor.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the direct linear motor
monitor and the direct matrix motor monitor include shift
registers, and wherein at least two direct linear motor monitors
and at least two direct matrix motor monitors can be daisy chained
together.
5. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the microprocessor is
able to read DEX/UCS based audit data from the target vending
machine control system or operational device and combine that
information with additional information directly monitored from the
target vending machine.
6. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the microprocessor is
able to read DDCMP based audit data from the target vending machine
control system or operational device and combine that information
with additional information directly monitored from the target
vending machine.
7. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the microprocessor is
able to read Printer based audit data from the target vending
machine control system or operational device and combine that
information with additional information directly monitored from the
target vending machine.
8. The apparatus according to claims 6 or 7 wherein the
microprocessor is able to correlate and transform the retrieved
DDCMP and printer based audit data from the target vending machine
control system or operational device into the current vending
industry standard data format.
9. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the microprocessor is
able to correlate and transform the information directly monitored
from the target vending machine into the current vending industry
standard data format.
10. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the microprocessor
is able to transmit the collected and transformed data via the
current vending industry standard protocols and data formats.
11. The apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising an
illuminated DEX/UCS audit port socket.
12. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the microprocessor
is configured for the target vending machine via specialized
commands and configuration messages.
13. The apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising circuitry
in at least one sub-module to detect when monitored AC signals are
in the portion of the cycle when they are valid.
14. An audit system comprising: an audit monitor controller
containing a microprocessor and a plurality of input interface
components operable to read information from at least one of a
vending machine control system and an operational device, and
including a plurality of output components; and at least one motor
sub-module coupled to the audit monitor controller for monitoring
vending machine motors.
15. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the motor sub-module is at
least one of a linear motor monitor and a matrix motor monitor.
16. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the motor sub-module is at
least one of a direct linear motor monitor and a direct matrix
motor monitor.
17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the direct linear motor
monitor and the direct matrix motor monitor includes shift
registers, such that at least two direct linear motor monitors or
at least two direct matrix motor monitors can be connected together
in a daisy-chain configuration.
18. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the audit module includes an
DEX/UCS interface for reading DEX/UCS based audit data and combines
that information with additional information from a vending
machine.
19. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein the DEX/JUCS interface is a
socket, and the audit module includes a light means that
illuminates the socket.
20. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the audit module reads DDCMP
based audit data and combines that information with additional
information from a vending machine.
21. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the audit module reads
printer-based audit data and combines that information with
additional information from a vending machine.
22. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the microprocessor correlates
and transforms the DDCMP audit data into vending industry standard
data format.
23. The apparatus of claim 21 wherein the microprocessor correlates
and transforms the printer-based audit data into vending industry
standard data format.
24. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the microprocessor correlates
and transforms data from a vending machine into vending machine
industry standard data format.
25. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the microprocessor transmits
data collected from a vending machine via vending industry standard
protocols and data format.
26. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein the direct linear motor
module includes circuitry to detect when monitored AC signals are
valid.
27. The apparatus of claim 26 wherein the monitored AC signals
include at least one of motor signals, credit signals and cash
counter signals.
28. The apparatus of claim 14 further comprising a user button.
Description
This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application
No. 60/348,784 filed on Oct. 23, 2002.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention pertains to a retrofit audit system for
reading information from a target vending machine or operational
device. Such a retrofit audit system includes a master module and
at least one sub-module for detecting further information.
[0002] The current standard for vending machines control boards is
to provide complete accountability for all cash and non-cash
transactions, products delivered, and any errors or other machine
based changes that may have occurred either during a vending cycle
or when the machine is serviced by operating personnel. The method
for doing this is known, and the means to retrieve the
accountability information (hereto referred to as audit data) is
governed by defined vending industry standards supported by the
National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) and the
European Vending Association (EVA). A complete specification titled
the European Vending Association Data Transfer Standard (EVA-DTS)
exists which documents the different protocols used to transfer
audit data to collection devices and the precise composition and
format of that data.
[0003] In contrast to modern machines, early vending machines
(those produced approximately from the 1960's to the 1980's) had no
means to collect audit data and/or to transmit such data to an MIS
system via a defined protocol. Thus, it would be beneficial to
provide a device to retrofit to the early vending machines so as to
offer such features.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Provided is a retrofit audit system implemented by a
collection of devices that will monitor the various cash
transactions and product vending cycles in existing vending
machines, store this information in non-volatile memory, and
provide for the transmission of that data to a transfer device or
terminal. The system will also monitor various vending machine
parameters with the intent of detecting abnormal or service type
conditions.
[0005] In an implementation, the retrofit audit system includes a
master module containing a microprocessor capable of reading
information directly from a target vending machine control system
or operational device. The master module includes at least one
communication port. In addition, a plurality of sub-modules are
connected to the communication port of the master module. The
sub-modules are capable of detecting additional information from
the target vending machine or operational device.
[0006] The retrofit audit system may include one or more of the
following features. At least one sub-module contains a
microprocessor. The sub-modules may include at least one of a
linear motor monitor, a matrix motor monitor, a direct linear motor
monitor and a direct matrix motor monitor. The direct linear motor
monitor and the direct matrix motor monitor may include shift
registers, wherein two direct linear motor monitors and/or two
direct matrix motor monitors can be daisy chained together. The
microprocessor may be able to read DEX/IUCS based audit data, or
DDCMP based audit data, or Printer based audit data, from the
target vending machine control system or operational device and
combine that information with additional information directly
monitored from the target vending machine. The microprocessor may
be able to correlate and transform the retrieved DDCMP and printer
based audit data from the target vending machine control system or
operational device into the current vending industry standard data
format. The microprocessor may be able to correlate and transform
the information directly monitored from the target vending machine
into the current vending industry standard data format. The
microprocessor may be able to transmit the collected and
transformed data via the current vending industry standard
protocols and data formats. The apparatus may include an
illuminated DEX/IUCS audit port socket. The microprocessor may be
configured for the target vending machine via specialized commands
and configuration messages. At least one sub-module may contain
circuitry to detect when monitored AC signals are in the portion of
the cycle when they are valid.
[0007] In another implementation, an audit system includes an audit
module containing a microprocessor and a plurality of input
interface components operable to read information from at least one
of a vending machine control system and an operational device. The
audit module also includes a plurality of output components. In
addition, at least one motor sub-module is coupled to the audit
module for monitoring vending machine motors.
[0008] This implementation may include one or more of the following
features. The motor sub-module may be at least one of a linear
motor monitor, a matrix motor monitor, a direct linear motor
monitor, and a direct matrix motor monitor. The direct linear motor
monitor and the direct matrix motor monitor may include shift
registers, such that at least two direct linear motor monitors or
at least two direct matrix motor monitors can be connected together
in a daisy-chain configuration. The audit module may include a
DEX/UCS interface for reading DEX/UCS based audit data and may
combine that information with additional information from a vending
machine, the DEX/UCS interface may be a socket, and the audit
module may include a light means that illuminates the socket. The
audit module may read DDCMP based audit data, or printer-based
data, and combine that information with additional information from
a vending machine. The microprocessor may correlate and transform
the DDCMP audit data, or the printer-based audit data, into vending
industry standard data format. The microprocessor may correlate and
transform data collected from a vending machine into vending
machine industry standard data format. The microprocessor may
transmit data collected from a vending machine via vending industry
standard protocols and data format. The direct linear motor module
may include circuitry to detect when monitored AC signals are
valid, and the monitored AC signals may include at least one of
motor signals, credit signals and cash counter signals. The audit
system may include a user button.
[0009] Although numerous types of vending machines can be
monitored, in an implementation the audit output of the Retrofit
Audit System adheres to the European Vending Association Data
Transfer Standard (EVA-DTS). This standard defines the means by
which data is formatted and the protocols by which the data can be
extracted. Two protocols are currently defined and supported by an
implementation of the Retrofit Audit System, the DEXIUCS and the
Enhanced DDCMP (Optical) Protocol. The Retrofit Audit System
therefore advantageously provides a system for collecting audit
data and for transmitting such data to an MIS system via a
predefined protocol, and provides a system that can be conveniently
retrofitted to a plurality of vending machines, even to vending
machines manufactured in the 1960's to 1980's.
[0010] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent
from the description and drawings, and from the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like
elements.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of an Audit Monitor
Controller (AMC).
[0013] FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating an
illuminated DEX socket.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of a Linear Motor
Monitor (LMM).
[0015] FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of a Matrix Motor
Monitor (MMM).
[0016] FIG. 5 is a simplified block diagram of a Direct Linear
Motor Monitor (DLMM).
[0017] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the interface
connection between the DLMM of FIG. 5 and the AMC.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a simplified block diagram of a Direct Matrix
Motor Monitor (DMMM).
[0019] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating the interface
connection between the DMMM of FIG. 7 and the AMC.
[0020] FIG. 9 is a simplified block diagram of an Optical Isolator
Module (OIM).
[0021] FIG. 10 illustrates an implementation of a cable connection
between a vending machine controller or credit device and the AMC
of FIG. 1 or a sub-module of FIGS. 3, 4, 5 or 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] A wide variety of older vending machines exist with an
equally wide variety of unique vending interfaces, and thus the
retrofit audit system incorporates a number of modules with which
to monitor the cash transactions and product vending cycles. In an
implementation, a complete Retrofit Audit System may include an
Audit Monitor Controller, a Linear Motor Monitor, a Matrix Motor
Monitor, a Direct Linear Motor Monitor, a Direct Matrix Motor
Monitor, an Optical Isolator Module and connection cables. A
configuration of a Retrofit Audit System may include, for example,
an Audit Monitor Controller, one or more Direct Linear Motor
Monitors, an Optical Isolator Module and connection cables. Other
configurations are possible because the system can be configured to
meet specific and/or varying specifications depending on, for
example, vending machine type.
[0023] FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of an Audit Monitor
Controller (AMC) 10. The Audit Monitor Controller is a
hardware/software device which interfaces to a vending machine
directly and/or to various motor monitoring sub-modules which will
be described in detail below. The AMC incorporates a
microcontroller 12 connected to various input and output components
through multiplexers 13 and 15, or directly as described below. The
AMC includes battery 14 connected to back up memory 16 and a real
time clock 18. The operating firmware resides in FLASH memory 20
for ease of field enhancements via a boot loader. The primary
inputs and outputs of the AMC are described below.
[0024] The DEX/UCS interface 22 is a hardwired input interface used
by data carriers to extract audit information from vending
machines. DEX systems typically operate at 9600 baud on either 0 to
5 volt or standard RS232 levels. The AMC connects to the existing
vending machine controller via an electronically switchable direct
DEX connection. It acts as a "data carrier" and interrogates the
Vending Machine Controller (VMC) of a vending machine to extract
the machine's audit data. It also is able to send configuration or
command information to the VMC. Although the AMC normally takes the
role as a MASTER during the first DEX handshake, it can be
optionally configured to act as a SLAVE if required for older
vending machine controllers.
[0025] The DDCMP interface 24 is an optical interface used by data
carriers to extract audit information from vending machines.
Initially, DDCMP based systems operated at 1200 baud; however,
newer machines use 2400 baud. The AMC connects to the existing
vending machine controller via a direct hardware connection. It
acts as a "data carrier" and interrogates the VMC to extract the
machine's audit data. Older vending machines implemented a unique
means of packetizing the audit data (lists). More recent vending
machines implement the DEX type data elements. Although initial
connections are typically hardwired, the use of an external optical
interface module could be used to allow an Infra-Red link to
vending machine controllers that do not have the provision for a
direct connection.
[0026] The printer monitor input 26 is a three (3) or four (4) wire
unidirectional interface that is used by a small number of vending
machines to directly print out audit information onto a paper tape.
The printer interface is monitored by the AMC and the text output
is translated into appropriate DEX data elements. A control signal
(CTS) is provided from the AMC to indicate BUSY if required.
XON/XOFF software flow control is also provided. Via configuration,
the AMC is able to support multiple standard printer baud rates and
message structures.
[0027] The MDB interface 28 is the current industry standard for
virtually all electronic vending machines. It is a unique, three
(3) wire signal interface (five wire including power/ground) used
by coin mechanisms and/or bill validators and/or card readers and
other devices to communicate with vending machines. The interface
is primarily used in the US, Europe, and other Western countries.
It is based on a specialized bi-directional, 9600 baud coded
message structure.
[0028] The AMC is able to operate in two modes when connected to
the MDB interface 28. In one mode, it monitors all MDB message
traffic. In this mode, the AMC is able to interpret the messages
and collect virtually all credit and vend transactions and
translate them into appropriate DEX data elements. In the second
mode, the AMC is configured to act as an active audit device when
connected to the MDB interface 29 to which VMCs can directly
transmit audit data. Currently there is an Audit Device (address
18H) defined in the NAMA MDB/ICP specification. In addition, a
proprietary MDB based audit device has been produced for a specific
company. It resides on the MDB bus as address 188H and new
controllers for that company support it. In addition to dedicated
messages to the proprietary audit device, the new MDB File
Transport Layer (FTL) is also implemented which provides for high
level, bi-directional data transfers across the MDB bus to the VMC
or other peripherals that support FTL.
[0029] The Executive interface 30 is a four (4) wire current loop
interface used by coin mechanisms and card readers to communicate
with vending machines. The interface is primarily used in Europe
and other Western countries outside the US. It is based on a
specialized bi-directional, 9600 baud coded message structure.
[0030] The AMC 10 is able to operate in two modes when connected to
the Executive interface. In one mode, it monitors the Executive
message traffic. In this mode, the AMC is able to interpret the
messages and collect virtually all credit and vend transactions and
translate them into appropriate DEX data elements. In the second
mode, the AMC is configured to act as an active audit device on the
Executive interface 32. Various coin mechanisms and/or card readers
recognize the existence of an audit module and transmit transaction
information. The AMC receives the Executive messages and translates
them into appropriate DEX data elements.
[0031] A pair of One-Wire interfaces (actually 2 wires including
ground) are unique interfaces used to access devices manufactured
by the DALLAS Semiconductor Company. One interface 34 is used to
read/store information to a Touch Memory for quick setup and/or
time and date. The second interface 36 is used to monitor the
temperature of the machine to detect machine malfunctions which
could result in potential product spoilage. A limit (alarm)
condition can be set to be logged as an event.
[0032] The Micromech (MC5000) interface 38 is a twelve (12) or
fifteen (15) wire interface used by coin mechanisms to communicate
with vending machines. The interface 38 is primarily used in the US
and is based on a specialized uni-directional, 600 baud coded
message structure with additional bi-directional control signals.
Although the coin mechanisms can operate either from 120 VAC (12
pin) or 24 VAC (15 pin), the AMC monitors only the low voltage (5
VDC) signals used for communications and control.
[0033] The Pulse/Serial Bill Validator interface 40 is a multi-wire
credit pulse type interface or specialized unidirectional, 600 baud
coded message structure with additional bi-directional control
signals that is monitored to determine the cash amount of inserted
bills. Typically, it will be used in conjunction with the Micromech
interface to accumulate a complete accounting of the cash
transactions.
[0034] The ACD interface 42 is a three (3) wire interface used by
coin mechanisms to transmit cash information. It is based on a
specialized unidirectional, 1200 baud coded message structure sent
as three double byte packets (doublets). The AMC monitors the ACD
messages.
[0035] To allow the AMC to detect and/or force machine functions,
the controller incorporates four (4) general purpose inputs and two
(2) general purpose "open collector" outputs 44. The inputs are
typically set to be logged as machine events. Inputs three and four
can also be used with an optional Optical Isolator Module to
monitor either (or both) of a cash counter and a credit line.
[0036] Regarding the cash counter, the coin mechanism transmits a
credit pulse to indicate the cash amount of vends. Sent after a
vend, each pulse translates into a monetary unit (one pulse equals
5 cents). Concerning the credit line, the mechanism transmits an
actual vend relay output which is used to initiate a vend. Each
pulse translates into a single vend count.
[0037] The LMM/MMM and DLMM/DMMM interface 46 is used to connect to
a Linear Motor Monitor (LMM) or to a Matrix Motor Monitor (MMM), or
to a Direct Linear Motor Monitor (DLMM), or to a Direct Matrix
Motor Monitor (DMMM), which are individual AMC sub-modules that are
used to monitor vending machine motors and various other vending
machine interfaces. The LMM and MMM are individual AMC sub-modules
which are used to monitor vending machine motors and incorporate a
microprocessor which scans motor inputs and sends the information
to the AMC for further processing. The LMM and MMM can be used if
the AMC does not monitor the Micromech (MC5000) or Pulse Bill
Validator interfaces directly. The LMM is designed for higher
voltage (120 VAC) linear motors and the MMM is designed for lower
voltage (24 VDC) matrixed motors. A European version of the LMM is
designed for 240 VAC linear motors. The AMC interfaces with both
via a serial, 1200 baud, four (4) wire, optically isolated bus.
Information received from the devices is translated into
appropriate DEX data elements by the AMC.
[0038] The Direct Linear Motor Monitor (DLMM) and the Direct Matrix
Motor Monitor (DMMM) are individual AMC sub-modules which are used
to monitor vending machine motors directly from the AMC. These
devices can be used if the AMC directly monitors the Micromech
(MC5000) or Pulse Bill Validator interfaces. The DLMM is designed
for higher voltage (120 VAC) linear motors and the DMMM is designed
for lower voltage (24 VDC) matrixed motors. A European version of
the DLMM may be designed for 240 VAC linear motors. The AMC
interfaces directly with both via a "bit banged", three (3) wire
signal bus. Information received from the monitors is translated
into appropriate DEX data elements by the AMC.
[0039] A momentary contact User Button 48 is provided to allow a
route or service person to manually provide an input to the AMC. An
example would be a "Fill Button" which would be pressed when the
machine is completely filled. This prompts the AMC firmware to load
column product counters with predetermined numbers to be used to
determine a Sold Out condition.
[0040] In an implementation; the Audit Monitor Controller 10
transmits its monitored and collected data via the industry
standard EVA-DTS DEXIUCS protocol. A 9600 baud, three (3) wire
DEX/UCS interface 50 is based on the 0 to 5 VDC RS232C signals as
defined in the EVA-DTS. Although the AMC normally takes the role as
a SLAVE during the first DEX handshake, it can be optionally be
configured to act as a MASTER if required for older data carriers.
This allows the data carrier to be the MASTER and determine the
direction of data transfer. All transferred data adheres to the
vending industry DEX data element format. The DEX/USC interface 50
is also able to be used to load configuration data into the
AMC.
[0041] FIG. 2 is a simplified schematic diagram 100 illustrating an
illuminated DEX socket 102. To provide information to the service
man and/or route man, an LED 104 is provided to illuminate the DEX
port socket 102. This is a significant benefit in guiding the route
man as to where to insert the DEX connector plug, especially in a
dark vending machine. It also provides an easily visible way of
seeing that the unit is operating normally. The AMC 10 uses the LED
as a "heartbeat", whereby when it is operating normally, it pulses
at an approximate half-second rate. In this implementation; an LED
104 is located on the AMC printed circuit board near the bottom of
the DEX socket 106. This configuration takes advantage of the
socket being open at the bottom, the interior of the socket being
reflective metal, and the LED may be a flat SMD part which can fit
under the socket. The LED serves as an indicator for the
microcontroller. When the microcontroller is operating normally,
the LED is pulsing ON and OFF at approximately a 50% duty cycle
every second.
[0042] The pulsating light emitted from the LED is reflected by the
inner silver surface of the DEX socket. The resultant pulsating
glow from the top of the socket, where it protrudes through the
case shell, indicates to the machine operator, service technician,
or route person whether or not the Retrofit Audit System is
operating properly. In addition, the pulsating glow also guides the
route person as to where to insert the DEX plug. This is especially
useful in the typically dark conditions of vending machines.
[0043] The LED may also provide additional functionality. For
example, when software is being loaded into system memory, the LED
may flash at an increased rate that is easily distinguishable from
the normal flash rate. Also in many situations where the system is
not functioning properly, the LED may remain ON or OFF constantly.
A constant LED ON situation may be representative of missing or
corrupt memory while a constant LED OFF situation may be
representative of hardware failure.
[0044] Referring again to FIG. 1, the Audit Monitor Controller 10
can transmit its monitored and collected data via the industry
standard EVA-DTS Enhanced DDCMP (Optical) Protocol (EOP) interface
52. This protocol is a higher data transfer rate extension to the
original 1200 & 2400 baud DDCMP based protocol existing in
vending machines today. The physical optical medium (located on an
external module) is derived from the IrDA interface used in the
PC/PDA industry. The AMC is capable of 115.2K baud, the EOP
maximum. All transferred data adheres to the vending industry DEX
data element format (as defined in the EVA-DTS even though the
protocol is DDCMP). The interface is also able to be used to load
configuration data into the AMC.
[0045] The AMC may operate from several power sources 54. These may
include a 24 VAC (50-60 Hz) vending machine power source, a 34 VDC
MDB bus power source, a 24 VAC (50-60 Hz) external transformer
(including LMM/MMM), and a ACD Interface 11 VDC power source (not
shown).
[0046] FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of a Linear Motor
Monitor (LMM) 200 which is a sub-module to the Audit Monitor
Controller 10. FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of a Matrix
Motor Monitor (MMM) 300 which is another sub-module to the AMC 10.
The LMM and MMM are similar, microprocessor based sub-modules that
interface to the AMC via a dedicated serial interface. The LMM 200
connects to high voltage (120 VAC) directly driven motors, whereas
the MMM connects to low voltage (24 VDC) motors driven in a
row/column matrix.
[0047] In the implementation shown in FIG. 3, the LMM incorporates
a microcontroller 202 to monitor the high voltage (120 VAC) linear
motors and other vending machine interfaces listed in the Common
Motor Monitor Vending Interfaces described below. Examples of
Common Motor Monitor Vending Interfaces include, but are not
limited to, Credit Line (Vend Relay) interface 216, the Cash
Counter interface 218, the Accountability Credit Display (ACD)
interface 206, the Micromech monitor input 208, and the Pulse Bill
Validator monitor input 210. All information is collected by the
microcontroller 202 and is sent to the AMC 10 via AMC interface 201
for further interpretation and processing. Unique features of the
LMM 200 include the ability to detect the state of up to twelve
(12) high voltage (120 VAC) motors with a 12 HV Motor Monitor 214.
In addition, one (1) high voltage (120 VAC) Credit Line (Vend
Relay) input and/or one (1) high voltage (120 VAC) Cash Counter
input is provided as described below.
[0048] The Credit Line (Vend Relay) interface 216 is a two wire
pulse type interface that is monitored by the AMC to determine the
number of vends performed by a vending machine. It is typically
used with single price coin mechanisms with each pulse translating
into a single vend. The LMM/MMM monitors the Credit Line pulses and
send the counts to the AMC.
[0049] The Cash Counter interface 218 is a two wire, 120 VAC credit
pulse type interface that is monitored by the LMM. Normally used
with single price coin mechanisms, each pulse typically translates
into a monetary unit; i.e., one pulse equals 5 cents. The LMM
monitors the Cash Counter pulses and send the counts to the
AMC.
[0050] The LMM connects to 120 VAC and contains a 24 VAC
transformer 204 which has a two wire output to supply power to the
AMC. The LMM also contains an optically isolated portion of
electronics 220 which operate on a direct 120 VAC derived 5 VDC
power supply 206. A European version of the LMM is designed for 240
VAC operation.
[0051] FIG. 4 illustrates the Matrix Motor Monitor sub-module 300
to the Audit Monitor Controller. The MMM incorporates a small
microcontroller 302 to monitor the low voltage (24 VDC) matrixed
motors and other vending machine interfaces listed below regarding
the Common Motor Monitor Vending Interfaces. All information is
collected by the microcontroller and is sent to the AMC via an AMC
interface 301 for further interpretation and processing. One unique
feature of the MMM is its ability to detect the state of up to 144
(10 row.times.14 column) low voltage (24 VDC) motors via a LV Motor
Monitor 314.
[0052] The MMM connects to 120 VAC and contains a 24 VAC
transformer 304 which has a two wire output to supply power to the
AMC. The MMM includes an ACD monitor input 306, a micromech monitor
input 308, and a pulse bill validator monitor input 310. The MMM
also contains an optically isolated portion of electronics which
operate on a direct 120 VAC derived 5 VDC power supply. A European
version of the LMM may be designed for 240 VAC operation.
[0053] As stated for both the LMM and the MMM descriptions above,
the two sub-modules also contain electronics to monitor various
vending machine interfaces. The microcontroller in the LMM and MMM
detects and buffers the information collected on the vending
interfaces. This information is passed onto the AMC micro-processor
for further higher level interpretation and translation into DEX
data elements. The following paragraphs describe the vending
interfaces monitored.
[0054] The Accountability and Credit Display (ACD) interface (206
and 306) is a three (3) wire interface used by coin mechanisms to
transmit cash information. It is based on a specialized
unidirectional, 1200 baud coded message structure sent as three
double byte packets (doublets). The LMM and MMM monitor the ACD
messages and parse the three doublets into two byte packets to send
to the AMC.
[0055] The Micromech (MC5000) interface (208 and 308) is a twelve
(12) or fifteen (15) wire interface used by coin mechanisms to
communicate with vending machines. The interface is primarily used
in the US and is based on a specialized uni-directional, 600 baud
coded message structure with additional bi-directional control
signals. Although the coin mechanisms can operate either from 120
VAC (12 pin) or 24 VAC (15 pin), the LMM and MMM monitor only the
low voltage (5 VDC) signals used for communications and control.
The LMM and MMM monitor the Micromech messages and parse the
information into packets to send to the AMC.
[0056] The Pulse/Serial Bill Validator interface (210 and 310) is a
multi-wire credit pulse type interface or specialized
uni-directional, 600 baud coded message structure with additional
bi-directional control signals that are monitored to determine the
cash amount of inserted bills. Typically, it is used in conjunction
with the Micromech interface to accumulate a complete accounting of
the cast transactions. The LMM and MMM monitor the Bill Validator
pulses or serial messages and send the credit values to the
AMC.
[0057] To allow the AMC to detect and/or force machine functions,
the LMM and MMM incorporate four (4) general purpose inputs and two
(2) general purpose "open collector" outputs (212, 312) as shown in
FIG. 3 and 4.
[0058] FIG. 5 depicts the Direct Linear Motor Monitor (DLMM)
sub-module 400, which contains an optically isolated interface 401
to the Audit Monitor Controller. The DLMM connects to high voltage
(120 VAC) directly driven motors, and incorporates shift registers
which are directly controlled by the AMC 10. The shift registers
detect the state of up to twelve (12) high voltage (120 VAC)
motors, represented by monitor 402, and the DLMM also includes one
(1) high voltage (120 VAC) Credit Line (Vend Relay) input 404, and
one (1) high voltage (120 VAC) Cash Counter input 406. The DLMM
operates on a direct 120 VAC derived 5 VDC power supply 408. A
European version of the DLMM is designed for 240 VAC operation. As
an option, two DLMMs can be daisy chained together for additional
motor monitoring. The AMC is able to automatically detect how many
DLMMs are connected by reading information provided in the shifted
data stream.
[0059] The DLMM incorporates an AC signal detection synchronization
method to allow the AMC 10 to detect when the 120 VAC motor
signals, Credit Line (Vend Relay), and Cash Counter are active with
respect to the 120 VAC line power.
[0060] FIG. 6 is a block diagram 500 illustrating the interface
between the AMC and DLMM. AMC interface 401 is a unidirectional,
synchronous serial interface based on Parallel In Serial Out shift
registers (PISO's) 502 and 504 that are controlled by the
microcontroller 12 in the AMC. The front end circuitry 407 in the
DLMM 400 clips the 60 cycle signals which makes it impossible for
the AMC microcontroller firmware to tell the difference between a
motor signal not being active as opposed to the signal being
active, but being in the part of the 60 cycle that is clipped
(therefore, not "visible"). Since the AMC's microcontroller 12 is
multiplexing numerous tasks, it is not dedicated to continuously
reading in the DLMM's signals. This, coupled with the shifted
serial data, make it necessary to detect when the AC signals were
in a valid state.
[0061] A method implemented to provide this information used an
additional input on the parallel-to-serial shift register to be
able to detect the actual 120 VAC line power in addition to the
normally monitored inputs. In essence, when the firmware reads the
DLMM data, the software checks the 120 VAC line power bit to see if
it's high. If so, it then checks the rest of the motor inputs to
see if any of them are active. The judicial location of the 120 VAC
line power input on the shift register's least significant bit
(LSB) also provides a feature whereby the AMC can detect the state
of the line power by toggling a single signal (LOAD) to the shift
register.
[0062] The Direct Matrix Motor Monitor (DMMM) 600, illustrated in
FIG. 7, is a sub-module to the Audit Monitor Controller that is
similar to the Direct Linear Motor Monitor "DLMM" 400 of FIG. 5.
FIG. 8 is a simplified block diagram illustrating the interface
between the AMC and the DMMM. Both the DMMM and DLMM interface
directly to the AMC 10 via a "bit banged" interface. The DMMM
connects to low voltage (24VDC) motors typically driven in a
row/column matrix. The DMMM incorporates shift registers (652, 654
and 656) which are directly controlled by the AMC. The shift
registers detect the state of up to 144 (10 row.times.14 column)
low voltage (24 VDC) motors and are connected to an AMC interface
604. The DMMM operates on power supplied by the AMC. As an option,
two DMMMs can be daisy chained together for additional motor
monitoring. The AMC is able to automatically detect how many DMMMs
are connected by reading information provided in the shifted data
stream.
[0063] In order to monitor the 120 VAC high voltage Cash Counter,
Credit Line, and bill validator Enable & Inhibit signals, the
AMC 10 requires these to be buffered by optical isolators. FIG. 9
illustrates an Optical Isolator Module (OIM) 700 which contains
four (4) general purpose optical isolators 702, 704, 706 and 708
that can accept the high voltage signals from monitored inputs 710,
712, 714, and 716 and convert these into the lower voltage signals
720, 722, 724, 726 required by the AMC. A European version of the
OIM is designed for 240 VAC operation.
[0064] FIG. 10 illustrates a cabling configuration 800. In
particular, numerous cables are implemented in the Retrofit Audit
System which allow the monitoring of the various vending machine
interfaces. These cables are designed so that the normal vending
machine signals are not only passed through, but also "tapped into"
in order for the AMC and its sub-modules to detect the state of the
signals as shown in FIG. 8. For example, shown are a cable 802
connecting a vending machine controller 804 to a credit device 806.
A cable 808 taps into line 802 and includes a connection 810 to the
AMC or to a sub-module which have been described above. Other
configuration are possible wherein the AMC or a sub-module is
connected to another device or devices within a vending
machine.
[0065] The Retrofit Audit System converts all the data that it
monitors into industry standard data elements. The particulars are
defined in the EVA-DTS specification. One of the prime features of
the RAS is its ability to merge the various types of data from the
various types of interfaces
[0066] The AMC 10 must be configured to match the Retrofit Audit
System (RAS) to the target vending machine. This programming is
performed via unique commands as well as DEX/IUCS data elements as
configuration messages utilizing the MC5 group of standard EVA-DTS
data elements which permit unique device dependent data to be
transferred.
[0067] In an effort to prevent normal DEX/UCS usage from
configuring the AMC, the system implements a secondary security
password to enable this feature. After the normal DEX/UCS First
& Second Handshake and SD1 password, in an implementation the
following command is sent and is followed by an asterisk (*) and a
10 digit number.
[0068] MEI*SECURITY*##########
[0069] Following receipt of the proper SD1 and SECURITY password,
the AMC allows the MC5 type configuration messages, special
commands, or a configuration read. A configuration window is
"opened" which remains so for approximately 2 minutes. During this
time, multiple DEX session MC5 type configuration element strings
can be transferred. Each time one is transferred the window will
remain open for an additional 2 minutes. If a specialized command
is received the window will close immediately after processing the
command.
[0070] If a DEX read is performed during the "window", all AMC
configuration parameters will be read back using the equivalent MA5
fields. These will be returned in lieu of the normal DEX audit
records. The window will close immediately after the transmission
of the data.
[0071] The following paragraphs provide three (3) examples of data
elements groups (MACHINE, COIN, and TIME) that are implemented in
the AMC for RAS configuration purposes. Note that many other types
of configuration/setup parameters are able to be sent to the RAS.
Note also that these are in addition to the general configuration
elements that can be sent to the AMC to configure non operational
parameters, i.e., Asset Numbers. These elements are defined in the
industry EVA-DTS standard.
[0072] In the information below, AN indicates alphanumeric, N0
indicates integer numbers, Nc indicates cash based numbers, TM
indicates time, and DT indicates date. The ##/## symbol indicates
the minimum/maximum length of the element which have been targeted
to the specifics of the RAS and have been increased where necessary
to transmit the required data. The M indicates the field is
mandatory and will always be written to the AMC. The O indicates
the field is optional for writing, but must be sent back when
reading.
[0073] Generally, the means to configure the AMC is performed by
using the MC5 group of machine specific elements which are defined
below. Note that if an element or block of elements is not sent,
the previous element setting(s) is preserved.
[0074] 1. MACHINE Data Elements (CONFIGURE)
[0075] If the MC501 Block Number indicates MACHINE, the following
data elements are used to configure the AMC with various machine
related data elements.
1 MC502 Manufacturer/Model O AN 01/20
[0076] This element identifies the actual manufacturer and/or model
number of the vending machine. A three character manufacture code
is used as specified in Appendix B of the EVA-DTS. If undefined,
the element can either be skipped or sent as XXX. Examples would
be:
2 API Automatic Products International CNV Crane National Vendors
EZV Electrolux Zanussi Vending WIT Wittenborg A/S XXX Undefined
[0077]
3 MC503 Motor Drive M AN 03/06
[0078] This element identifies the type of motor drive used in the
vending machine. A three character code is used. Defined drives
would be:
4 NONE No motor monitoring LIN or LINEAR Linear (DLMM used) MTX or
MAT or MATRIX Matrix (DMMM used)
[0079]
5 MC504 Product Sale Information M AN 04/07
[0080] This element determines whether the PA501 & PA502
elements are used to indicate the Sold Out Date/Time or Most Recent
Sale Date/Time. A four or seven character code is used per
below:
6 SOLDOUT Sold Out Date/Time SALE Most Recent Sale Date/Time
[0081] 2. COIN Data Elements (CONFIGURE)
[0082] If the MC501 Block Number indicates COIN, the following data
elements are used to configure the AMC with the various coin
mechanism related data elements.
7 MC502 Manufacturer/Model O AN 01/20
[0083] This element identifies the actual manufacturer and/or model
number of the coin mechanism. A three character manufacturer code
is used as specified in Appendix B of the EVA-DTS. If undefined,
the element can either be skipped or sent as XXX. Examples would
be:
8 AZK Azkoyen Comercial CAI Coin Acceptors International MEI Mars
Electronics International NRI National Regectors, Inc. XXX
Undefined
[0084]
9 MC503 Coin Mechanism Interface M AN 03/06
[0085] This element identifies the type of coin mechanism interface
used in the vending machine. A three/four/five character code is
used. This element must be configured and cannot be skipped or sent
as XXX. Defined coin mechanism interfaces would be:
10 NONE No Coin Mechanism 1PR Single Price 4PR Four Price 10PR Ten
Price MC5000 * MC 5000 (117 VAC or 24 VAC) MDB Multi-Drop Bus EXEC
Executive * or 5000
[0086]
11 MC504 Cash Counter Scaling Factor M N0 01/04
[0087] This element identifies the scaling factor that should be
used when monitoring the cash counter output pulses of a 1/4/10
price coin mech. This element must be configured and cannot be
skipped or sent as X if a 1PR, 4PR, or 10PR coin mech is selected
in element MC503.
[0088] 3. TIME Data Elements (CONFIGURE)
[0089] Although the time and date can be set using standard DEX/UCS
configuration commands, the AMC can optionally be sent a special
MC5 TIME command that is similar to previously designed control
boards. This allows the existing MEIDEX program to be used without
modification.
[0090] If the MC501 Block Number indicates TIME, the following data
elements are used to configure the AMC's real time clock.
12 MC502 Unused M AN 01/01
[0091] This element is unused in the AMC and regardless of what is
sent, the AMC will ignore it.
13 MC503 Date M DT 06/08
[0092] This element allows the setting of the date using the format
(CC)YYMMDD. Valid years would be (20)00-(20)99, valid months would
be 01-12, and valid days would be 01-31. The century digits are
optional.
14 (CC)YYMMDD Date specified by: CC century 20 (2000) YY years from
00 (2000)-99 (2099) MM months from 01 (January)-12 (December) DD
days from 01-31
[0093]
15 MC504 Time M TM 04/04
[0094] This element allows the setting of the time using the 24
hour format HHMM. Valid hours would be 00-23 and valid minutes
would be 00-59.
16 HHMM Time specified by: HH hours from 00-23 MM minutes from
00-59
[0095]
17 MC505 Daylight Savings Mode M AN 01/03
[0096] This element allows the setting of daylight savings. The
parameters are listed below:
18 OFF or OF No daylight savings mode NA or USA North American
rules (see IC504) EU or EUR European rules (see IC504) AU or AUS
Australian rules (see IC504)
[0097] A number of embodiments of the invention have been
described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various
modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention, and the other implementations are within
the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *